Deputy PM Defends Nevin's Birthday Attendance Amid Flood Criticism
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai defended his party’s attendance at Nevin's birthday party as a long‑standing Thai tradition, denying claims of neglecting flood‑stricken areas. He said MPs from Ayutthaya and Ang Thong and three deputy interior ministers stayed in Bangkok to oversee flood relief, and that no political discussions occurred during the visit.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, speaking as a leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, said on October 6, 2026, at the Government House that party members attending the birthday of Nevin Chidchob, president of Buriram United Football Club, were simply following a Thai tradition. He stressed that the practice is not new; he himself has taken part for almost 20 years, viewing it as a customary gesture of friendship and goodwill.
He rejected suggestions that the gathering was a political name‑checking exercise, noting that the Prime Minister had already instructed officials to stay in flood‑hit areas if needed, while those with spare time could visit others. He pointed out that MPs from Ayutthaya and Ang Thong provinces, as well as the three deputy interior ministers, remained in the Bangkok area to oversee flood relief, and that no discussion of party matters took place during the visit.
Phumtham added that Nevin did not offer any advice or political messages, and that the occasion was purely a personal congratulatory gesture. He also said he saw no members of other political parties at the event, noting that only Bhumjaithai members attend the birthday celebration each year.
